Ball putting cup and method of ejecting ball from same

ABSTRACT

Method and apparatus for automating the ejector operation of a golf cup and featuring the use of flexing diaphragm and/or impacting cup to impart ball impacting force to a golf ball. A telescoping coil and magnet system operate to trigger a control circuit, in response to the presence of a golf ball, and this control circuit in turn causes the coil and magnet means to interact and impart ball impacting force to the ball. A pivoting impacting cup provides a multidirectional, pivotal movement, operable to permit impacting energy to be effectively developed and applied on impacting means. Non-radial ball ejection is effected such that a random ejection pattern results. The control circuit includes means to amplify a signal generated by relative movement between the coil and magnet means. This relative movement is induced by the golf ball engaging the diaphragm and moving the diaphragm and coil downwardly. The amplified signal serves to energize the coil by inducing the transmission of electrical energy back to the coil. The thus energized coil interacts with the magnet means, elevates, and this elevation causes abrupt elevation in turn of the diaphragm. This diaphragm movement imparts ball impacting force to the golf cup, effecting its randomly directed removal from the cup.

United States Patent 1 91 1111 3,874,665 McCulloch et al. Apr. 1, 1975BALL PUTTING CUP AND METHOD OF [57] ABSTRACT EJECTING BALL FROM SAMEMethod and apparatus for automating the ejector op [75] Inventors:Robert P. McCulloch, Los Angeles; eration of a golf cup and featuringthe use of flexing Stephen H. Smith, San Pedro, both diaphragm and/orimpacting cup to impart ball imof Calif. pacting force to a gold ball.[73] Assignee: McCulloch Corporation, Los A telescoping coil and magnetsystem operate to Angeles, Calif trigger a control circuit, in responseto the presence of I a golf ball, and this control circuit in turncauses the [22] Flled: 1972 coil and magnet means to interact and impartball 21 AWL 2 7 433 impacting force to the ball.

Related us. Application Dam pivoting impacting cup provides amultidirectional, pivotal movement, operable to permit Impacting [63]Contmuanon-m-part of Ser. No. l86,289, Oct 5, energy to be effectivelydeveloped and applied on [971, abandoned. impacting means. 52 U.S. Cl.273/34 A, 273/179 A Non-radial ejection is effected such that a random51 1111.01 A6311 57/00 ejection Pattern resultsl l Field Of Se 79, 3 127A, 4 The control circuit includes means to amplify a signal 33 /231generated by relative movement between the coil and magnet means. Thisrelative movement is induced by [56) References Cited the golf ballengaging the diaphragm and moving the UNITED STATES PATENTS diaphragmand coil downwardly. The amplified signal 1,689,476 10/1928 Brumder273/179 A Serves energize the by including 1,826,641 10/1931 Waddell273/34 A transmission of electrical energy back the coil- The 1.918.9947/1933 $1011 273/34 A thus energized coil interacts with the gne means.2.501.032 3/1950 Harbaugh 335/231 X elevates, and this elevation causesabrupt elevation in 3.365.199 111968 Scholien etal. 273/179A turn of thediaphragm. This diaphragm movement 3.467.389 9/1969 Scholin et a].273/179 A imparts ball impacting force to the golf cup, effecting3,564,756 2/l97l Gunpei Yokoi 46/[46 its randomly directed removal f theCup. 3.623.732 ll/l97l Peeples 273/179 A 3,679.844 7/l972 Derkacz335/23] Primary Examiner-George J. Marlo Attorney, Agent. or FirmBurns,Doane, Swecker & Mathis 7 Claims, 11 Drawing Figures CompressibleWasher- 57 PATENTEDAPR 1 s SHEET 2 BF 6 MAGNET ASSEMBLY DATEMEUAFR 1 msSEiZU 3 BF 6 Compressible Washer- 57 Downwardly Dis Iaceoble Con-l2 filli r 28 mama m 1 ms ENERGIZE CONTROL AMPL! FYING SIGNAL BALL PUTTINGCUP AND METHOD OF EJECTING BALL FROM SAME RELATED APPLICATION Thisapplication is a continuation-in-part of our US. Pat. application Ser.No. l86.289 filed Oct. 5, l97l and entitled Automated Golf Cup Concept,now abandoned."

GENERAL BACKGROUND, OBJECTS AND SUMMARY OF INVENTION As golfing hasincreased in popularity, the sophistication entailed in maintaining golfcourses has significantly increased.

With a view to minimizing the exertion required by players in retrievinggolf balls from golf cups. and with a view to minimizing damage to turfon putting greens around golf cups automated golf ball ejectors havebeen conceived.

Two such automated golfcup concepts are disclosed, one in a U.S. Englishet al Pat. No. 3.467378, and another in U.S. Peeples Pat. Nos. 3.3 I03!1 and 3.3l0.3 l 2.

The English et al and Peeples concepts commonly require the utilizationof motor means and a mechanism for rotating a ball ejecting means so asto provide a random ejection pattern.

In the art there has persisted a need for an automated golf cup usableon a practice "green" or regular course, which would effect automatedejection of a golf ball while requiring minimum maintenance and whilebeing characterized by a high degree of resistance to adverseem'ironmental conditions and prolonged operating life.

A further need has persisted in the art for a golf ball ejectingmechanism or automated golf cup which is of a practicable andserviceable nature and effectively avoids reliance upon complexthrowing" mechanisms or precisely oriented radial ejection mechanisms.since such mechanisms as heretofore developed have been of only limitedutility.

In particular. a need has persisted for the development of an automatedgolf cup which would effect the ejection of golf balls in a randompattern or manner, while avoiding the complexities of motor and rotationsystems and reduce the number of moving parts to an absolute minimum.

Accordingly. it is a principal object of the invention to advance theautomated golf cup art by providing an ejection mechanism which isoperable to impact golf balls out of a golf cup in a random mannerwithout requiring the use ofcomplex motor means and/or mechanisms forrotating an ejection mechanism.

A further object of the invention is to provide an au tomated golf cupconcept including an impacting mechanism which is effectively operablein conjunction with a diaphragm means yet which is operable in and ofitself to provide effective golf ball ejecting action.

A further object of the invention is to provide a unique. articulatedgolf ball ejecting mechanism wherein an impacting member first undergoesa movement in one direction while impacting energy is being developedand then undergoes a golf ball impacting movement in another directionafter sufficient energy has been stored in the mechanism for effectiveimpacting operation.

A still further object of the invention is to provide an automated golfcup concept wherein reliance upon ra- III dially directed and/orthrowing type ejection action is effectively avoided.

It is a further object ofthe invention to provide a flexible diaphragmmeans which functions as the base of the golf cup, as well as a golfball impacting force transmitting means.

A related object of the invention is to provide such a diaphragm meanswhich protects or shields control components of the golf cup locatedbeneath the diaphragm means.

Another object of the invention is to provide a golf ball ejectingarrangement wherein simple interaction between a lightweight magneticcoil and a magnet system serves to both provide an indication of thepresence ofa golf ball in a golf cup and impart an impacting force tomeans such as the diaphragm means heretofore noted.

A further object of the invention is to provide a uniquely interrelatedarrangement of batteries and control circuits and magnet means in anautomated golf cup, such that the battery means and magnet effectivelyhouse the control circuit.

In accomplishing at least certain of the objectives heretofore noted, amethod of ejecting a golf ball from a golf cup is presented where adiaphragm means is positioned so as to be operable to impact a golf ballout of a golf cup and function as the base of the golf cup rather thanconstitute an ejector which projects through the cup base into itsinterior. An energizing means is provided to effect this golf ballimpacting movement of the diaphragm means. The energizing means isactuated in response to downward flexing movement of the diaphragmmeans.

Another independent method aspect of the invention operable toaccomplish certain of the foregoing objectives entails a golf ballejecting method where an elec trical signal is generated in response tomovement of the aforesaid diaphragm means caused by the presence of agolf ball in a golf cup.

In response to this generation of electrical signal, the diaphragm meansis caused to flex upwardly and im pact a golf ball generallynon-radially out of a golf cup in a generally random manner.

Another method aspect of the invention pertains to a mode of operationwhich it is believed may be ascribed to the diaphragm means. In thisaspect of the invention, the diaphragm means is operable to support agolf ball in a golf cup, with the diaphragm means being disposed in agenerally retracted condition. As the golf ball impacting force isdirected upwardly against the diaphragm means, the diaphragm means isextended upwardly. The imparting of this impacting force, concurrentwith this extending action of the diaphragm means. is believed to beoperable to impact a golf ball generally nonradially, in a randommanner, out of a golf cup.

A further method aspect of the invention pertains to another aspect of amode of operation which may be ascribed to a resilient diaphragm means.As an impacting force is applied to the underside of such a resilientdiaphragm means, the diaphragm means is extended upwardly and flexes atleast to some degree.

A further independently significant aspect of the invention pertains tothe use of a lightweight coil means which is telescopingly received by amagnet means and which is operable to impart impacting force to theaforesaid diaphragm means or other golf ball impacting means.

Downward movement of the diaphragm means or impacting means is operableto induce relative movement between the coil means and the magnet meansso as to generate a signal indicative of the presence of the golf ballin a golf cup. In response to this signal, and interaction between thecoil means and magnet means, an impact force is developed which isdirected upwardly against the diaphragm means or impacting means.

A further method aspect of the invention involves the articulation of animpacting means so as to permit movement in one direction while energyis being stored, and movement in another direction for impactingpurposes.

Various combinations of apparatus means are presentcd through thisinvention which interact to effect the individual and overall methodaspects of the invention heretofore noted. At least in certain instancesthis interaction is believed to be synergistic in nature. Such variousapparatus combinations constitute individually significant facets of theinvention.

Another independently significant apparatus facet of the inventionrelates to the manner in which a battery pack and magnet function toprovide housing for a control circuit.

Another independently significant apparatus aspect of the inventionrelates to the use of a control circuit which is operable to amplify aball presence detecting signal and direct an energizing flow ofelectricity to a coil means for the purpose of generating a ballimpacting force.

By way of clarification of the invention, but without limitation as toits scope, the summarized aspects of the invention will be reviewed inrelation to certain presently preferred embodiments.

DRAWINGS In describing the invention, reference will be made topresently preferred embodiments shown in the appended drawings.

In the Drawings:

FIG. I provides a perspective view of a practice putting green,illustrating the manner in which the golfcup ejecting mechanism of thepresent invention is operable to effect a generally random golf ballejecting pattern;

FIG. 2 provides an "exploded" perspective view of components of onepreferred embodiment of a golf cup which may be employed in the FIG. Iinstallation;

FIG. 3 provides a further enlarged, transversely sectioned, elevationalview of the first preferred embodiment, showing the components of FIG. 2in their assembled relationship;

FIG. 4 provides a transverse sectional view of the FIG. 3 assembly. asviewed along section line 4-4 of FIG. 3, looking downwardly on a ballimpacting diaphragm means;

FIG. 5 provides a transverse sectional view of the FIG. 3 assembly, asviewed along section line 55 of FIG. 3, looking downwardly on an annularbattery pack arrangement;

FIG. 6 provides a schematic illustration of a control circuit which maybe employed to effect actuation of an automated golf cup fabricated inaccordance with the present invention;

FIG. 6a provides an illustration of a circuit which may be employed toimplement the functions ofthe cir cuit schematically depicted in FIG. 6;

FIG. 7 provides a transversely sectioned, elcvational view of a secondpreferred embodiment of the invention',

FIG. 8 illustrates components of the FIG. 7 assembly in a perspectiveand longitudinally exploded format; and

FIGS. 90 and 9!) provide a schematic, sequential illustration of themanner in which a coil and generally frustroconical impacting cup aredisposed in a separable or relatively movable relation as a ball isimpacted by a diaphragm means in response to electrical energization ofthe coil means.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF PRESENTLY PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS The context inwhich the present invention is practiced is generally illustrated inFIG. I.

As there shown, a golf cup I is positioned on a prac' tice putting green2. The upper rim 3 of the golf cup I is generally recessed aboutthreequarters to one inch below ground level of the green 2.

Cup 1 includes a cylindrical, ball receiving. upper portion 6, as shownin FIG. 2.

With the gencraal context of the invention having been described,attention will now be devoted to a first preferred embodiment of thegolf ball ejecting mechanism itself.

FIRST PREFERRED EMBODIMENT Structural details of a first presentlypreferred embodiment of the invention are illustrated in FIGS. 2-4.

As shown in FIG. 2., the principal components of the first embodiment ofthe golf cup, include first means comprising a generally cylindricalbody defining the golf ball receiving cup means or housing 6.

Cup means 6 may be provided with a plurality of circumferentiallyspaced, radially outwardly directed drainage holes 8 adjacent its loweredge.

The first embodiment also includes second means comprising a generallyannular, diaphragm retaining rim 9 and a diaphragm I0.

Diaphragm I0 may be fabricated of elastomeric material so as to besomewhat resilient. However, it is contemplated that the diaphragm I0will preferably comprise resilient material such as rubber, neoprene, orother clastomeric means within which reinforcing fabric is embedded soas to provide a structure of improved strength. Such reinforcing, whenused, may be confined to a portion of the diaphragm, such as its top,transverse wall means.

The first embodiment additionally includes third means comprising a coilassembly II comprising a generally cylindrical coil I2 disposed beneathan upwardly diverging, frustoconical impacting cup or member 13. Thecoil I2 may be fixedly connected with the cup I3 or may comprise aseparate component disposed beneath the cup I3 and movable relativethereto.

The components shown in FIG. 2 additionally include a magnet assembly 14comprising an annular outer pole I5 and an axial pole I6. Poles I6 andI5 are separated on the upper side of the magnet assembly by an annularcavity 17. Cavity I7 is operable to telescopingly receive coil I2. Thelower portion of the magnet assembly includes a base means 18 whichserves to interconnect the central pole means I6 and annular pole meansIS in a magnetically permeable manner.

As shown in FIG. 3, cavity I7 may have an upper narrow zone 17a and alower, wider gap zone I712. This arrangement serves to intensify themagnetic lines ol'tlux intersecting the turns of coil I2 and extendingbetween center pole I6 and outer. annular pole I5. by tending tointensify the density of tlux lines in and extending across upper gapportion 170.

Components for interconnecting the coil I2 and impacting cup I3 with themagnetic pole I6 comprise a generally cylindrical, spring retainer [9including a l'rustoeonical, downwardly diverging spring retaining lip20. A downwardly diverging, generally frustoconically configured coilspring 2I is also provided, along with a mounting screw 22 and mountingwasher 23.

A battery pack receiving base 24 is included in the FIG. 2 assemblage.Base 24 may be provided with a series of circumferentially spaced,battery receiving recesscs 25. Recesses 25 are disposed outwardly ofacentral cavity 26. Cavity 26 is encircled by an imperforate, generallycylindrical wall 27 and includes a closed imperforatc base 28.

The manner in which the aforesaid components are assembled is generallydepicted in FIG. 3.

As there shown, each of the cavities 25 is occupied by a battery 29which may comprise an alkaline, rechargeable battery of the nicklecadmium type. The batteries may be arranged in the circumferentialpattern generally shown in FIG. 5, with adjacent batteries beingdisposed in relatively inverted relationship. In other words, thebattery 291: shown in FIG. 5 may be disposed with its positive pole 30facing upwardly while the adjacent battery 29/) may be disposed with itsnegative pole 3I facing upwardly. The poles 30 and 31 of adjacentbatteries may be interconnected by a metallic bridege strip 32.

A series of bridge strips are employed, as shown in FIG. 5, so as toprovide electrically conductive interconnection between positive andnegative poles of all but two adjacent batteries so that the batteries29 encircling cavity 26 are connected in series relationship and thusdefine an annular battery pack.

As is also shown in FIG. 5, one of the two unconnected batteries isprovided with a positive connecting terminal 33 and the other of thesebatteries is provided with a negative terminal 34. Flexible electricalconnections or leads 3S and 36 extend from these positive and negativepoles or terminals 33 and 34, respectively, to a fourth or controlmeans, i.e., a solid state control circuit panel 37.

Solid state control panel 37 may be supported in cavity 26 by agenerally circular mounting plate 38 which rests upon upper rim 27a ofwall 27 as generally shown in FIG. 3.

With the circuit panel 37 disposed as shown in FIG. 3 within the cavity26, conventional, electrically, nonconductive, fluid plastic potting"material may be injeeted into the cavity and allowed to solidify in thecavity so as to provide a totally waterproof and environment-proofcircuit installation. Various resins, including epoxy resins, may beemployed for this purpose.

In this connection it will be understood that another pair of leads orflexible electrical connections 39 and 40 would extend from the controlpanel 37 upwardly through the mounting plate 38 to the leads extendingfrom the coil I2.

Thus, as shown in FIG. 3, leads 39 and 40 may pass from circuit panel 37upwardly through a mounting plate opening 4], while the leads 35 and 36may pass through an opening 42 in the mounting plate 38.

Magnet assembly 14 is telcscopingly received within an upper portion ofhousing 24 and rests upon a housing ledge 43.

The magnet assembly 14 may be secured to the ledge 43 by a series ofthreaded fasteners 44 which pass upwardly from the base 45 of housing 24through threaded fastener receiving openings 46.

As illustrated in FIG. 3, the threaded upper ends of fasteners 44 arethreadably received within threaded sockets 47 formed in the underplate[8 of the magnet assembly.

FIG. 3 also illustrates the manner in which other threaded fasteners 48may serve to interconnect superposed plate members 49, 50, 5] and 52 ofthe magnet assembly. Fastening means 48 may comprise a series ofcircumferentially spaced fasteners extending through apertures in theplates to engage threaded sockets 53 in upper plate 49. as generallyshown in FIG. 2.

Central pole I6 may be secured to base plate 52 (which providesmagnetically permeable connection I8) by another, centrally locatedthreaded fastener 54.

Before or after the magnet assembly 14 is installed, as heretoforedescribed, the coil 12 may be telescopingly inserted into the recess 17as shown in FIG. 3. The mounting collar I9 may then be positioned on topof pole 16 so as to extend through a central aperture 55 in the base ofimpacting cup 13. The mounting collar I9 may be thus positioned with thecoil spring 21 disposed beneath and retained by the collar 20.

In this manner, the lower, larger diametered portion of the spring 2Iwill engage the base 56 of the impacting member 13 so as to resilientlyand yicldably urge the impacting member downwardly to its rest positionshown in FIG. 3.

In this rest position, a longitudinally and compressible washer orcollar 57 formed of resilient plastic or elastomcric foam material (orother spring means) may be interposed axially between wall 56 and theupper end of the magnet l6. This resilient support, or other springmeans, will serve to support coil 12 in a somewhat elevated position inrecess [7 and permit resiliently yieldable downward movement of the cup13 and coil 12 from the rest position shown in FIG. 3 in response to theweight of a golf ball dropping in cup 6 onto the diaphragm I0 and cupI3.

The retainer member 19 and spring 2] may be sccured in the positionshown in FIG. 3 by installing the threaded fastener 22 so that itextends downwardly through a central aperture 10a of diaphragm I0 and acentral aperture 58 of the member 19 and is threadably received within athreaded central passage 59 of the magnetic pole I6. The washer 23 maybe interposed between the head of the fastener 22 and the top ofdiaphragm 10 as shown in FIG. 3.

In completing the assembly of the golf cup components, as aforesaid, thediaphragm 10 will be positioned on top of the magnet I4 and on top ofthe components 22, 20, 21 and 13. With these components located inhousing 24 as shown in FIG. 3. the mounting rim 9, having a generallyL-shaped cross-section, may be teleseopingly inserted into the upper endof housing 24 so as to cause a lower annular rim 60 to abuttingly engagethe rim or outer radial lip 61 of the diaphragm I0 and urge this lip, insandwiched relation against the upper magnet plate 49.

The ball receiving cup 6 may then be positioned above the rim 9 suchthat a series of circumferentially spaced and longitudinally extendingthreaded fastener receiving openings 62 of this cup are aligned withthreaded fastener receiving openings 63 in rim 9 and with threadedopenings 64 in magnet plate 49. The insertion ofthreaded fasteners 65through these openings will serve to interconnect the components 6. 9and 49 and thereby effectively secure the diaphragm means in position asthe base of the cup 6 and structually integrate the overall assembly.

With the assembly thus integrated, the leads 39 and may extend from theturns of the coil 12, through the base and side wall of cup 13, anddownwardly through an aperture means 66 extending longitudinally throughmagnet assembly 4. These leads 39 and 40 will extend from beneath magnetmeans 14 through base plate aperture 41 to appropriate electricalconnections with the control panel 37. The leads 39 and 40 will besufficiently flexible and slack above magnet 14 as to permit generallyfree vertical up and down movement of coil 12 relative to magnet 14.

At this juncture it is appropriate to consider certain structuraldetails of the flexible diaphragm 10, hearing in mind that the diaphragm10 functions as a sealed flexible base for the golf ball receiving cup 6as well as an upwardly flexing, golf ball impacting member.

Diaphragm 10 includes the aforesaid rim or radial lip 61. A bellowsportion 67 of the diaphragm 10 extends upwardly from the rim 61. Agenerally convex or generally conical wall portion 68 extends across thetop of bellows portion 67.

During upward movement ofcup 13, the bellows wall 67, due to its lateralflexibility, will function to relieve any vacuum which might tend toform in the cavity 70 beneath the diaphragm.

A generally annular, ball receiving recess 69 is defined by toptransverse wall means 68 and encircles the cavity 70 which is encircledand thus defined in part by the bellows means 67. The recess 69 has agenerally concave, upwardly opening, cross section.

An outer rim 7| of recess 69 is operable to engage a first under portion72 of a golf ball 73 as generally shown in FIG. 3. The upwardlyconverging wall portion 74 of wall means 68 is operable to engage asecond under portion 75 of the golf ball.

A series of upwardly projecting, circumferentially spaced protuberancesmay be carried by rim 71. generally as illustrated in FIG. 3. These"bumps" perform a ball arresting function, i.e., arrest rolling movementof the ball around recess 69.

As shown in FIG. 3. under portions 72 and 75 are generally spaced.Diaphragm portion 76 underlying the golf ball and extending betweenthese contact points is in a generally slack. i.e., retracted.condition. However, it will here he recognized that such a retractedcondition could result with the diaphragm generally cradling orconformingly engaging the under side of the golf ball 73.

In this connection, it will be understood that a golf ball 73 enteringthe cup portion 6 will tend to locate itself in a random manner at somecircumferential location on the recess 69. for the reason that therecess provides the only stable golf ball supporting structure withinthe interior of the golf cup. This results, of

course, from the fact that the recess provides at least two stabilizingsupport means 71 and 74 while the remaining structure within the cupfails to provide such a stable, multiple support arrangement.

All this notwithstanding, the invention contemplates ball impactingoperation even when the ball 73 does not locate itself in this manner.

As is shown in FIG. 3, frustoconical rim 77 of cup means, or impactingmeans 13 engages diaphragm 10 generally immediately beneath andcontiguous with the rim 71 of the recess means 69 so as to be able toimpart force directly upwardly against an off-center, outer side of golfball 73. in this connection, it will be understood that while cup 13 islightweight in nature, it is fabricated so as to be generally rigid, soas to be operable to effectively transmit impacting force from coil 12to diaphragm 10.

As will here be noted, the circumferential arrangement of the batteries29 provides, in essence, a battery defined barrier or wall encirclingthe cavity 26 within which the control panel 37 is received. The top ofthis cavity, in essence, is closed by the magnet means 14. Thus, themagnet means and the battery pack cooperate to substantially house andprotect the control means 37.

At this juncture it is also significant to note certain variations whichmay be effected in relation to the coil 12 and impacting member 13.

Coil 12 and impacting cup 13 are lightweight components, preferablyweighing not in excess of a few ounces.

Cup 13 may be bonded, connected with. or inte grated with a core(possibly plastic) 78 of coil 12. This core 78, which may be cylindricalin nature supports on its outer periphery a coil winding 79.

As shown in FIG. 3, the winding of the coil 79 may have a generallyrectangular cross-section, elongated generally radially of the cup axis.This arrangement is desirable in that it would provide a relativelygreat area of wire intersecting the magnetic field of magnet means 14.

By fabricating the coil of anodized aluminum wire, the need forinsulation may be avoided.

While such an edge wound coil arrangement is desirable, the inventionmay also be effectively practiced with a coil akin to a conventionalspeaker coil, where the winding comprises insulated copper wire having aconventional circular cross-section.

While the invention may be practiced with the integrated coil core 78and cup 13 as shown in FIG. 3, it is believed that improvements in ballimpacting performance, resulting in golf balls being thrown a furtherdistance from the cup 1. may result by fabricating the coil 12 as acomponent structurally separate from the cup 13. In this arrangement,the cup 13 would merely rest upon or be supported above the upper edgeof the coil [2, generally in the manner subsequently described inconnection with the second embodiment of the invention.

With the principal components ofthe golfcup I having been described.along with their mode of assembly, it is now appropriate to consider themanner in which the golf cup operates on an automated basis to impactgolf balls outwardly therefrom.

MODE OF OPERATION OF FIRST PREFERRED EMBODIMENT When a golf ball comesto rest in recess 69 of diaphragm I as shown in FIG. 3. the downwardlydirected force imposed by the golf ball on the diaphragm will cause thecup I0 to tend to move downwardly and thereby induce downward movementof the coil 12 in the magnetic field of magnet means I4. This downwardmovement will be yieldably resisted by the supporting resilient means 57underlying the wall 56. (Wall 56 may be considered as the upper wall ofthe coil I2 as well as the base of the lrustoconical impacting means[3.)

This downward movement of coil 12 relative to the magnet means 14 willgenerate an electrical signal which will be transmitted from coilwindings through leads 39 and to circuit 37. FIG. 6 schematicallydepicts this signal generating function in schematic circuit block 80.

This electrical signal will be electrically amplified by circuit means37 in a circuit sequence generally depicted in blocl; of FIG. 6.

Circuit 37 will cause a pulse or flow of electrical energy to bedirected back through leads 39 and 40 to coil winding 79.

The aforesaid transmission of electrical energy through leads 39 and 40to coil winding 79, will cause electrical interaction between coil 12and magnet 14, resulting in abrupt upward movement of the coil 12. Thisabrupt upward movement is generally depicted in block 83 of theschematic circuit of FIG. 6.

The termination of upward movement of coil 12 may be determined byeither the progressive resistance to diaphragm distension caused by thediaphragm l0 itself and/or the spring 2] or the engagement of impact cupwall 56 with the collar or retaining lip 20. At, or near, the end ofthis movement, the energization of coil 12 will terminate and spring 2],possibly in combination with diaphragm 10, will restore the cup I3 andcoil II to the rest position of FIG. 3.

This upward movement of coil 12 will cause upward movement of theimpacting means I3. The abrupt movement of the impacting means 13 wouldthen be transmitted to the underside of the diaphragm 10.

The imposition of upwardly directed force to the under side of thediaphragm 10 will cause longitudinal elongation of the bellows means 63and upward extension and flexing ofthe bellows means, and in certaininstances could induce distension, stretching or tensioning of the wallmeans 68.

This distcnding of the wall means 68. even thus may tend to remove atleast some of the slack in area 76 as the diaphragm I0 is movingupwardly. Such slack removal may vary as a factor dependent upondiaphragm flexibility, etc. However, where, as in the present case, thecenter wall means 68 remains engaged with center support means 22 as cupI3 is raised, diaphragm flexing in top wall 68 will occur. In any event,slack removal in bellows portion 63, tending to offset any vacuum orreduction in pressure in cavity 70 as cup 13 is raised, will facilitateball impacting action.

While the precise phenomena attributable to the interacting of theseevents is not fully understood, observation of performance of the cup Ishows that the operation of the diaphragm will produce a unique, randomejection pattern.

fill

Thus, as schematically shown in FIG. I. one golf ball 73 a impacted bydiaphragm 10. would follow a trajectory 84, moving from the recess 69 onthe right side of the cup shown in FIG. I across and upwardly out ofthecup and passing through the left side of the cup to come to rest atposition 85.

Another golf ball 73b, shown in FIG. I, might be impacted from the leftside of the cup in recess 69. pass upwardly out of the cup through theright side of the cup, and come to rest at position 86.

As shown in FIG. 1. positions 86 and may well be located at varyingradial distances from the cup 1, as well as being located at differentcircumferential locations in relation to the cup 1.

This random mode of ejection is significant in that it causes players toretrieve ejected balls at widely varying locations of the green and atdistances spaced substantially outwardly from the cup. This retrievalphenomena reduces or minimizes wear of the green at any particularlocation, and particularly wear in the vicinity immediately adjacent tothe cup I.

With the basic mode of operation of the golf cup I having been describedwith reference to schematic circuits depicted in FIG. 6. it is nowappropriate to consider an electrical circuit which may controlfunctions depicted in FIG. 6 and be integrated in the control panel 37.

CONTROL CIRCUIT FIG. 6a depicts an exemplary control circuit which maybe cnploycd in control panel 37.

Leads 35 and 36 are connected to circuit 100 at positive and negativejunctures I22 and 122a, respectively, while leads 39 and 40 areconnected to other control circuit junctures 39a and 400.

With reference now to the schematic circuit diagram of FIG. 6a, the coilI2 of the extreme right side of the figure functions as a sensingelement. The coil 12 may be loosely suspended in a magnet field of about8,000 to 10,000 gausses developed by magnet means 14. The displacementof coil 12 in response to the weight of a golf ball entering the cup 6may generate an e.m.f. across the terminals of the winding 79 to coil I2of approximately lS millivolts.

This signal which indicates that a golf ball is present in the cup isapplied by way of the terminal 102 and a coupling capacitor 104 to atwo-stage amplifier circuit indicated generally at 106. The couplingcapacitor I04 is connected in series with a surge limiting resistor I08to the gate electrode of an N-channel junctiomfield effect transistorFET-l. The gate electrode of the transistor FET-l is electricallyconnected with negative battery terminal 122a through a resistor 110,the source electrode of the transistor FET-l is grounded through aresistor 112 and a capacitor 4 connected in parallel, and the drainelectrode of the transistor FET-l is connected through a resistor 116 toa source of positive d.c. potential which may, for example, comprise a24 volt battery pack consisting of a plurality such as 10 sub C nickelcadmium cells 29.

The output signal from the transistor FET-l is fed from the collectorelectrode thereof through a coupling capacitor I18 to the base electrodeof a PNP transistor OI. The base electrode of the transistor OI isconnected through a resistor 120 to the source of positive potentialI22. the emitter electrode ofthe transistor 01 is connected through aresistor 124 to the source of positive potential 122, and the collectorelectrode of the transistor is grounded. through a resistor 126. tonegative connection 122a.

The output signal from the two stagc amplifier 106 is taken from aterminal 128 at the collector electrode of the transistor 0] and isapplied through a capacitor 130 to the gate electrode of a siliconcontrolled recti fier SCR-l in a transmitter circuit indicated at 152.The anode of the rectifier SCR-l is directly connected to the source ofpositive potential 122 and the cathode electrode thereof is connectedthrough a series connected resistor I32 and a capacitor 134 to negativepotential I220. The cathode of the SCR-l is also con nected by aresistor 136 to the gate electrode thereof, and the capacitor l-resistorI36 junction is connected to ground potential through a resistor 138.

The cathode of the silicon controlled rectifier SCR-l is connectedthrough a resistor 140 to the second base electrode of a unifunctiontransistor UJ-l and through a capacitor 142 to the first base electrodethereof. The

first base electrode of the transistor UJ-l is connected with negativeterminal 122a through a resistor I44 and the emitter electrode thereofis connected to the resistor l32-capacitor 134 junction in the cathodecircuit of the rectifier SCR-I.

The junction of SCR-l and the resistor [40 serves as the output terminalof a transmitter circuit 152 and is connected with a drive circuit 166through a capacitor 154 to the base electrode of a negative potentialgrounded emitter NPN transistor 02. The base electrode of the transistor()2 is grounded to potential 122a through a resistor 156 and thecollector electrode thereof is connected to the source of positivepotential I22 through a voltage divider network comprising resistors 158and 160. The resistor I60-resistor I58 junction is directly connected tothe base electrode of a PNP transistor Q3 whose emitter electrode isdirectly connected to the source of positive potential 122. Thecollector electrode of the transistor 03 is connected to negativepotential [220 through a voltage divider network comprising resistors[62 and 164 and is also connected through a feedback path comprising aseries connected resistor I67 and a capacitor [68 to the base electrodeof the transistor 02. The resistor l62-resistor I64 junction is directlyconnected to the base electrode of a grounded emitter NPN transistor 04.The collector electrode of the transistor 04 is connected to the sourceof positive potential 122 through a PN junction diode D-3 which isconnected across the coil 12.

In operation and with continued reference to FIG. 6a, the downwardphysical displacement of the coil 12, responsive to the weight of thegolf ball dropping on diaphragm [0 as it enters the cup 6, generates asmall electrical signal which is coupled from the terminal 102 throughthe capacitor 104 to the two-stage amplifier circuit 106. The fieldeffect transistor FET-l is connected as a class A amplifier and providesa voltage gain on the order of 1,000. The use of a field effecttransistor is desirable both from the standpoint of a low drain currenton the order of approximately 185 microamps and also for the low noisecharacteristics thereof at these low current values. This extends thelife of the battery pack without misfires due to noise.

The amplified output signal from the transistor FET-l is coupled throughthe capacitor 120 to the base electrode of the transistor 0] which isconnected as a class C inverting amplifier. The output signal from theamplifier [06 is taken from the collector electrode of the transistor Q]and is applied to the transmitter circuit 152 to initiate the pulse orcurrent flow which will eject the golf ball from the cup.

The conduction of the silicon controlled rectifier SCRJ is triggered bythis amplified signal from the coil 12. The transmission circuit 152consists basically of an instantaneous signal transmitter and onerelaxation oscillator. In the transmitter, the triggers of SCR-l willimmediately send a signal pulse through capacitor 154 to the drivecircuit generally indicated at 166.

With reference to the relaxation oscillator of the circuit 152.conduction of the rectifier SCR-l also applied the source of positivepotential 118 across the resistor [32 and capacitor 134. The values ofthese elements are conveniently selected to fire or trigger the unifunc'tion transistor UJ-l about I .2 seconds after the golf ball drops in thecup and physically displaces the coil 12 downwardly. in order toreactivate the cup for further operation. The capacitor 142 and resistor144 act as a filter to prevent the initiation of conduction of theunijunction transistor UJ-l when the golf ball is ejected by holding thevoltage from the uppermost base electrode constant. The positive pulsedeveloped on the lowermost base electrode of the unijunction transistorUJ-l is coupled to the cathode of the SC'R-l through the capacitor 142to provide a reverse bias which extinguishes the conduction of the SCR-lafter coil l2 has come to rest. As earlier explained, the diode D-lprovides a fast discharge path for the capacitor 148, when theconduction of the SCR-l is extinguished, through the resistor 140. thebase resistance of transistor UJ-l, and the resistor 144, to negativeterminal 122a.

The delay between the coil coming to rest and cup reactivation tends toprevent damage which might otherwise result from recycled impacting of aball in cup 6. But for this activation delay after impacting hasoccurred, a child or player could drop a ball into the cup 6. cover thecup 6 with a foot and induce potentially damaging endless" recycling ofthe coil, cup, and diaphragnr The drive circuit 166 receives the outputpulse of the timing circuit 152 as an input pulse of the base electrodeof transistor ()2 which conducts to effect the saturation of thetransistor 03. The conduction of the transistor 03 holds the transistor02 in conduction until the coil 12 moves to its upper limit by thesignal fed back through from the collector electrode of the transistor03 through the resistor 167 and capacitor 168.

The conduction of the transistor Q3 effects the conduction of thetransistor 04 which connects the positive d.c. potential from the source118 through the coil 12 to ground. The resulting current flowing throughthe coil winding 79 reacts with the magnetic field in which the coil 12is suspended to effect a rapid upward movement of the coil 12. Thisupward movement of the coil 12 effects the ejection of the golf ball ashas been previously described.

The reaetance of the coil winding 79 is desirably matched to theimpedance of the source of positive potential 122 and the sourcepotential accordingly drops significantly, when the coil 12 reaches theupper limit of its travel. due to the increased impedance load. Thisreduction in the potential seen at the collector electrode transistor Q2drives the transistor 02 into cut-off extinguishing the drive pulse.

Thus. the coil 12 serves at least two important functions in the circuitof P16. 6a. It serves first as a sensing element to develop a signalwhen the golf ball drops into the cup. Secondly, the coil 12 functionsas the linear actuator for ejecting the golf ball from the cup.

To facilitate the deactivation oicircuit 100 when cup 1 is beingtransported, a mercury switch 172 may be in corporated in the circuit,possibly as shown in P16. 60. When the cup 1 is upright, switch 172 isclosed and circuit 100 is active. When the cup is removed from a greento be charged, its inversion will open switch 172 and deactivate thecircuit 100.

It now becomes appropriate to consider structural operatingcharacteristics of a second presently preferred embodiment illustratedin FIGS. 7. 8, and 9.

SECOND PR ESENTLY PREFERRED EMBODlMENT FIGS. 7. 8, and 9 illustratestructural details of a second or alternate. presently preferredembodiment of the automated golf cup mechanism 1.

In this connection. it will be understood that circuit meanscorresponding generally to that described in connection with FIG. 6. maybe employed for the purpose of actuating the components of this secondembodiment.

A circuit similar to that shown in FIG. 6a may be employed for thispurpose.

As will also be understood. the general mode of operation of the secondembodiment corresponds to the mode of golf cup operation described inconnection with the first embodiment heretofore.

As shown in the "exploded" format view of PK]. 8. the components of thesecond preferred embodiment may comprise a unitized (or multicomponent)housing 200. a battery pack base 201. a control circuit panel means 202.and a generally annular battery pack assembly 203.

Battery pack assembly 203 may be taped together, with the batteryelectrodes being interconnected in the manner previously described inconnection with the arrangement shown in FIG. 5.

The components shown in FIG. 8 additionally include a magnet assembly204, substantially identical to magnet assembly 14 and provided with aplurality of downwardly extending and circumfcrentially spaced. threadedfastening means 205.

A centrally apertured terminal board 206 is provided along with a coilbiasing spring 207 and a coil 208.

A generally frustoconical impacting cup 209 is included in the assemblyof components, along with a generally radially flanged. threadedretaining member 210.

A diaphragm 211 is included, along with diaphragm retaining ring means212.

As will be apparent by reference to FIG. 7. the control panel 202 isinserted into an upwardly open rcccptacle or housing 213 carried by baseplate 201. The battery assembly 203 is telescoped over the housing 213.

The magnet is positioned so as to overlie the assembled components 203.201. and 202. with the threaded fastener 205 being threadably secured bythreaded nut 205:: to the base plate 201.

Prior to effecting this assembly, the circuit panel means 202 may bepotted" by fluid plastic means injected into. and allowed to hardenwithin, the housing 213.

Of course, prior to such potting" electrical connections would be madebetween the battery means 203 and the circuit means 202. as well asbetween the circuit means 202 and the terminal board 206.

Terminal board 206 merely provides a convenient connection juncturebetween the leads of the coil 208 and the control panel 202.

Before or after this assembly is completed. the spring 207 may bepositioned between the top or center pole 214 of the magnet assembly 204and the underside of a generally horizontally extending and centrallyapertured top wall 215 of the core of coil assembly 208.

The positioning of the spring in this manner would support the coil 208in a slightly elevated position in an annular recess 216 of magnet 204.

In this slightly elevated recess, the coil 208 would be operable to movedownwardly in response to the presence of a golf ball in the cup,dropping into the diaphragm 211.

The impacting means 209 comprise a generally frustoconical, albeitapertured. and upwardly diverging wall 217 and a generally horizontallyextending centrally apertured wall 218.

As shown in FIG. 7. impacting means 209 would be supported on the top ofcoil 208. and may rest directly on top of transversely extending coretop wall 215. The annular periphery 215a of wall 215 may be somewhatrounded, as shown generally in FIGS. 7 and 8.

Leads 219 and 220 may extend from coil 208 outwardly between walls 215and 218 to two terminals 221 and 222 on terminal board 206. Other leads223 and 224 would extend from these terminals 221 and 222 downwardlythrough a magnet passage 225 to electrical connection means of controlpanel means 202.

In the assembly depicted in FIG. 7, coil 208 is operable to moveupwardly through a central opening 226 in the terminal panel 206.

The threaded retaining member 210 passes through a central aperture 227in impacting member base plate 218. and through a central aperture 228in the top wall 215 of the core of coil 208, to threadably engage athreaded socket 229 in center pole 214 of magnet 204.

The under side 230 of flange 231 of retaining member 210 is operable toengage an upwardly moving base wall 218 of impacting member 209. andthus limit upward movement of this member.

The top surface 232 of retainer 210 may be threedimensionally rounded soas to provide support for the center of the under side of the diaphragmmeans 211, as generally depicted in FIG. 7.

With the components 210, 209. 208 and 207 connectcd with the othercomponents 206. 204. 203. 202. and 201. housing 200 may be lowered overthis completed assemblage. The diaphragm 211 will then be positioned inabutting relation with, and disposed beneath. a housing flange 233.

As shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, gasket 211 may be secured by retaining meanscomprising two arcuate rings 212a and 2121).

These rings. when superposed on top of rim 233, will each partiallycircumscribe the diaphragm rim 211a and provide fastener receivingopenings alignable with the fastener receiving openings in the diaphragmrim 2110, the superposed housing rim 233. and the top of magnet means204.

The diaphragm rim 2110 may be effectively sandwiched between thesecuring rim or ledge means 233 and the top of magnet 204 by the use ofthreaded fastening means 2120, the rings 2121i and 212b, as depictedgenerally in FIGS. 7 and 8. As there shown, the fastener means 2120 passthrough aligned openings in rim means 212a and 21211, housing rim 233,and diaphragm rim 211. to be threadably received within threaded sockets204a in magnet means 204.

Each of the retaining rings 212a and 212!) may be provided with agenerally inverted L-shaped, radially inwardly projecting, hook-likestructure.

Thus, the two hook-like structures 212v and 212d carried by theretaining means 212a and 21211, repectively, provide means within thegolf cup interior engageable with a golf cup lifting tool.

This tool may comprise a handle, including means operable to engage andexert a lifting force on the hook means 212C and 2120.

This arrangement enables an operator to effectively lift a golf cupaxially out of its socket on the green without damaging housing oroperating components of the golf cup itself.

As shown in FIG. 7, diaphragm 2 may include, in addition to rim 211a, agenerally longitudinally extending bellows portion 235 encircling acavity 236.

A transverse wall means 237 provides a generally annular recess 238having a generally concave. upwardly opening cross section. Wall means237 may be internally reinforced with fabric means, etc., such that itsstiffness will exceed that of bellows means 235.

Recess 238 extends between a generally rim-like portion 239 of thediaphragm means and a generally upwardly converging, interiorly locatedwall means portion 240. A series of protuberanccs 239a, akin to elements27in, may be carried by rim means 239.

A golf ball resting on concave recess 238 may generally conforminglyengage the recess or the recess 238 may "sag slightly beneath the golfball as described in connection with the first embodiment. However, itis desirable that upper edge 242 be beneath diaphragm recess rim 239.

Desirably, the recess 238 will provide stabilized concave supportoperable to support a golf ball in virtually any circumferentiallocation about the recess 238.

While the diaphragm may be fabricated of fiber or fabric reinforcedelastomeric means, upward movement of the diaphragm caused by upwardmovement of the coil 208 and impacting cup 209 will serve to somewhatflex the diaphragm. Here, again, it is believed that this action may tosome extent, not perfectly understood. cooperate with the impactingforce directed against the diaphram by the cup 209 to provide a unique.effective random-type, golf ball ejecting action.

As will be appreciated, the arrangement shown in FIG. 7. is such that adownwardly biasing retaining spring is not employed in connection withthe impacting means 209.

The overall mode of operation of the mechanism shown in FIG. 7corresponds in general to that described with the first embodiment.

Thus, the presence of a golf ball dropping onto recess 238 will move thecup 209 and coil 208 downwardly so as to develop an electrical controlsignal indicative of the presence of a golf ball. This control signal,of course, is generated by the interaction between the windings of thecoil 208 and the magnetic field generated by magnet means 204.

The thus generated control signal will be amplified by control circuitmeans 202 and in response to the amplified signal, a return flow ofelectricity will be transmitted from the battery pack 203. back to thewindings of the coil 208. This upward abrupt movement will cause the cup209 to move upwardly such that the upper rim 242 of cup 209 of the rimwill engage the under side of the diaphragm generally adjacent thediaphragm rim area 239 and distend the diaphragm means upwardly.

This distension will impart an impacting force to the diaphragm, withthe rim 242 imparting an impacting force through the diaphragm directlyto the golf ball overlying the rim portion 239.

Here, again, it is contemplated that the golf ball would be impacted outof the recess 238 from one side of the cup so to cross the cup and exitfrom the upper part of the cup on a generally opposite side. Desirably,the ball will be ejected back toward the location from which the ballwas putted into the cup.

The independently movable characteristics of the impacting cup 209 andthe coil 208 are believed to provide an intensified and improvedimpacting action. Empirical experience thus far gathered indicates thatthe separable nature of these components produces an impacting actionoperable to impact or hit a ball further,

away from the cup than the distance which would ordinarily be obtainedby a mechanism where these components were unitized.

The reason for this improved impacting action is not fully understood.However, it is possible, as schematically depicted in FIGS. 9:: and 9hthat the improved impacting action may result from the ability of thecup 209 to pivot as the coil 208 elevates.

As shown in FIG. 91:, during the first part (possibly about half) of theupward movement of coil 208 through magnet gap 216, the edge of cup 209below golf ball 73 will be weighted due to the presence of the ball, andit is believed that the cup 209 will tend to pivot counterclockwise,generally about coil top location 215/). Location 2151: will tend to belocated on rounded coil core top edge 2150. in general alignment with aplane extending radially of ball 73 and the central longitudinal axis ofmagnet 204 and coil 208.

With the components disposed as shown in FIG. 9a, such an initialpivotal movement will be in generally counterclockwise direction,possibly about left edge location 215b, and may continue until wall 218engages retaining wall 230, generally as illustrated.

At this point, it will be recognized that some or all of the aforesaidtilting or pivotal movement may take place when ball 73 comes to rest onrecess 238. In this event, the initial movement of cup 209 may beprimarily of an elevating nature and serve to bring the tilted cup intoengagement with the under side 230 of retainer 210.

During the last portion (possibly about the last half) of the elevatingmovement of coil 208. impact member 209 is believed to undergo agenerally oppositely directed pivotal movement, the termination of whichis schematically depicted in FIG. 9b. During this movement, a point ofengagement 218a between wall 218 and the outer corner of retaining wall230 may function as a pivot, wiht cup 209 undergoing upward, clockwisepivotal movement operable to impel ball 73 upward, from the left towardthe right side of the ball receiving, upper cup portion 200a of housing200.

Significantly, this latter phase of a multiple and reversely directedpivotal action would take place with coil 208 impacting member 209through a relatively long pivot arm extending generally betweenengagement locations 215/; and 2180. The length of this lever arm wouldexceed the radius ol' coil 208 and such a lever arm would be displacedfrom the coil 208.

This latter ball impacting phase of a reverse pivotal movement of cup209 would take place after coil 208 had acquired substantial storedenergy and had started effective upward movement, and overcome theinitial resistance to movement or system inertia.

As will be appreciated, this reverse pivotal movement would befacilitated by clearance between the edges of aperture 227 and the shank210a of retainer 210 and by the rounded top coil corner 215a. Thisrounded cor ner would permit rolling pivotal contact between the underside of wall 218 and the top of coil 208.

It should also be noted, at this juncture, that it is believed that thecenter of diaphragm 21 will generally remain in superposed, contiguousengagement with, or at least close proximity to, the rounded top 232 ofretainer 210 during LhL aforesaid reverse pivotal action.

The latter, clockwise, ball impacting movement phase, described inrelation to Flg. 911, would probably terminate when wall 218 pivotedinto a generally horizontal plane shown in this FlGURE, into generallyflush engagement with horizontal wall 230 of retainer 210. At thispoint, movement of coil 208 would cease, and the FIG. 6 and 6a circuitwould deactivate coil 208 and permit the coil 208 and cup 209 to restoreto the neutral position of FIG. 7.

It is also believed that the elimination of the downward biasing springacting on the impacting cup 209 will contribute to more effective longdistance ball impacting action, as will the removal of electrical leadsfrom the cup 209.

Removal of the cup from its socket on the green may be facilitated byvent means. Such vent means may comprise external recesses, extendinglongitudinally of the exterior of casing 200. Alternatively, or inaddition to such a venting arrangement, vent tubes may extend betweenledge 233 and base internally of housing 200, and provide ventingcommunication between the base of the unit and the ball receiving area.

While various structural and operational embodiments of the overallinvention have been described, it may be of clarifying interest to herereview certain more salient advantages of the invention and its overallscope.

lMPROVED ENVlRONMENTAL PROTECTION In order to effectively protect eitherof the aforesaid embodiments from environmental conditions, andparticularly moisture, several protective measures may be taken.

For example, it is contemplated that prior to the potting" of thecircuit panel within its housing through the use of materials such asepoxy resins, the battery pack, including terminals and at least partsof projecting leads, may be dipped in epoxy resin and the epoxy resinallowed to harden to form a moisture proof coating around the batterypack.

Various dipping and spraying techniques could be employed with partialor complete assemblies of either disclosed embodiment so as to virtuallyencapsulate (all and waterproof all electrical components of the systemincluding the power source, circuit panel, leads, etc.

In order to positively electrically isolate battery terminals from thebase of the magnet assembly, so as to avoid possible short circuitingproblems, an insulating gasket may be interposed longitudinally betweenthe magnet assembly and the upper end of the battery pack.

A representative insulating gasket 243, having a generally annular,planar configuration overlaying the upper end of the battery pack, isshown in FIG. 7.

SUMMARY OF MAJOR ADVANTAGES AND SCOPE OF INVENTION Most significantly,the present invention provides an automated golf cup concept of apractical and serviceable nature wherein complex throwing mechanisms areeliminated and reliance upon precision radial ejection is avoided.

When used on a practice putting green, the automated golf cup of thisinvention provides an ejecting mechanism which is continuously operableto cope with a plurality of players. In this instance, the cup may belocated remote from, or out of access of, all players, with the ejectingmechanism serving to return balls back to an annularly arranged seriesof putting stations spaced outwardly of the cup.

The use of the diaphragm and the impacting cup arrangement provides aunique integration of a cup base, sealing mechanism and an impactingstructure and affords a particularly effective random-type, ballejecting or impacting action.

Significantly, this ball ejecting action is effected without relyingupon precise, radially directed ejection or a throwing force ascontemplated in prior patents such as English ct al US. Pat. No.3,467,378.

The use of the interacting coil means and magnet provides, in essence, asingle movable actuating member which transmits force through theimpacting cup and cooperates with the diaphragm means to effect randomejection. All this is accomplished without placing reliance on complexmotor means or repositioning elements heretofore considered necessary bysuch patentees as English et al and Peeples (U.S. Pat. Nos. 3,3l(),3lland 3,3l0,3l2).

The use of the lightweight, speaker-type coil as the ejector mechanismaffords a low-cost, highly effective mechanism operable to develop aball presence indicating signal and also deliver ball impacting force toan ejecting mechanism such as a diaphragm.

The overall assembly provides a unique protection for relativelydelicate control components. Such protection is achieved by housing thecontrol panel or elements with the magnet and battery means and sealingthese components in the base of the golf cup by the diaphragm meansitself.

The overall characteristics of the unit are such that the golf cup isparticularly immune or resistant to breakdowns caused by adverseenvironmental conditions and is thus characterized by a uniquelyprolonged operating life.

The overall simplicity of the system contributes to acceptable lowfabrication and installation costs and ensures minimal maintenanceefforts and costs.

The golf ball impacting action of the present inven tion is believed toachieve its effectiveness through a variety of interacting phenomena,not all of which may be necessarily completely understood, However, itis believed that a most significant phenomena may reside in thealternately directed pivotal action described in connection withimpacting cup 209 of the second embodiment.

In a sense, it is believed that the first pivotal movement of the cup209 depicted in FIG. 9b may be viewed as a cocking movement which takesplace as energy is developed in the ejecting or driving mechanismcomprising the upwardly moving coil 208.

After the energy has been effectively accumulated, the reverse pivotalmovement of the cup 209 depicted in FIG. 9!: takes place and impartseffective impacting force to a golf ball supported by the cup or by adiaphragm overlaying the cup.

While the aforesaid diaphragm phenomena are be lieved to be significant,the impacting action of the cup alone, in the context of the inventionas claimed, even in the absence of a diaphragm, would probably yielddesirable, random ejection action.

As is described in parent application Ser. Nov l86,289, this ejectormechanism of this invention may be employed in a golf cup operable toreceive well known flag pins, such as those described in the prior art,US. Pat. Nos. 1,568,320 (Coldwell and 1,548,289 (Sparks). In additionthe transmitter 152 may be provided with conventional circuitory,described in the aforesaid parent application, to delay the ejectingaction, thereby employing the prior art ejection concept featured, forexample, in US. Pat. No. 3,l05,683 (Kimbrell However, such auxiliaryconcepts are independent of the invention aspects presented herein whichrelate to the ejector mechanism.

In describing the present invention, reference has been made to certainvariations which are exemplary of certain of the types of changes whichmay be made in practicing aspects of the ejector concept.

Those skilled in the automated golf cup art and familiar with thisdisclosure, may well recognize other additions, deletions,substitutions, modifications, or alterations, or changes which wouldfall within the scope of the ejector invention as defined in theappended claims.

What is claimed is:

l. A golf cup comprising:

first means including a housing operable to be positioned at leastpartially below ground level, and open upwardly, and receive adownwardly moving golf ball;

second means including a diaphragm operable to impact a golf ball out ofsaid housing;

said diaphragm defining base of said housing and being operable toundergo downward and upward flexing movement;

said diaphragm including a recess operable to receive and support a golfball at random locations therein; third means operable to effect golfball impacting, upward flexing movement of said diaphragm; and fourthmeans operable to actuate said third means in response to downwardflexing movement of said diaphragm; said upward flexing of saiddiaphragm being operable to impact said golf ball upwardly out of saidhousing, generally transversely across said diaphragm.

2. An apparatus as described in claim I wherein said diaphragmcomprises:

a bellows encircling a cavity and operable to resiliently extendlongitudinally upwardly of said housing; and

a flexible wall extending across an upper portion of said bellows anddefining a generally annular, ball receiving recess, comprising saidrecess of said diaphragm, and generally encircling said cavity;

said annular, ball receiving recess having a generally concave crosssection, an outer, generally annular rim operable to engage an underportion of a golf ball, and an upwardly converging wall operable toengage an under portion of said golf ball.

3. An apparatus as described in claim 2 wherein said third meanscomprises:

an impacting cup operable to engage the underside of said rim of saiddiaphragm and effect upward movement thereof;

said upward movement of said rim being operable to longitudinally extendsaid bellows and cause said annular, ball receiving recess to impact agolf ball supported thereby and cause said golf ball to be impactedgenerally upwardly out of said housing.

4. An apparatus as described in claim 3:

wherein said impacting cup comprises a generally frusto-conical,impacting wall diverging upwardly' of a longitudinal axis of saidhousing; and wherein said third means further includes a lightweight,electromagnetic coil disposed beneath said frustoconical impacting wall,said frustoconical impacting wall being movable upwardly, at least inpart, away from said lightweight coil, and a magnet defining an annularpassage, within which annular passage said lightweight coil istelescopingly received; said magnet and lightweight coil being operableto actuate said fourth means by generating an electrical signal inresponse to downward movement of said diaphragm, said frustoconicalimpacting wall, and said coil caused by engagement of a golf ball withsaid diaphragm; said fourth means being operable to generate a flow ofelectricity through said coil in response to actuation of said fourthmeans, with said flow of electricity being operable, in cooperation witha magnetic field generated by said magnet, to induce upward, ballimpacting movement of said lightweight coil', said upward, ballimpacting movement of said lightweight coil bcing operable to induceupward movement of said frustoconical impacting wall, with said upwardmovement of said frustoconical impacting wall in turn inducing upwardmovement of said diaphragm; and said upward movement of said diaphragmbeing operable to impact a golf ball received therein generally across,and upwardly out of, said housing in a random manner: said frustoconicalimpacting wall, during said upward movement, being movable relative to,and away from said coil, and said fourth means including battery meansoperable to supply said flow of electricity. 5. An apparatus asdescribed in claim 1: wherein said third means includes a coil movabledownwardly in response to downward movement of said diaphragm caused byengagcment of a golf ball therewith and movable upwardly to effect golfball impacting movement of said diaphragm;

said downward movement of said movable coil being operable to develop anelectrical signal; and wherein said fourth means includes an amplifieroperable to amplify said electrical signal; and

means operable to deliver electrical energy to said movable coil, withsaid electrical energy being operable to induce said upward movement ofsaid coil.

6. An apparatus as described in claim I wherein said third meanscomprises:

a coil operable, when electrically energized, to impart a generallyupwardly directed impacting force to said diaphragm; and

a magnet telescopingly receiving said coil and operable, in cooperationwith said electrical energization of said coil, to develop saidimpacting force.

7. A method of operating a golf ball ejecting cup which includes:

a golf ball receiving cup positioned at least partially below groundlevel, opening upwardly, and having a base defined by a diaphragm; saiddiaphragm having a recess operable to support a golf ball at randomlocations therein; and a magnet mounted in said cup and a coil movabledownwardly and upwardly in said cup relative to said magnet, said coilbeing movable downwardly relative to said magnet in response to downwardmovement of said diaphragm and movable upwardly relative to said magnetso as to induce upward flexing movement of said diaphragm; said methodcomprising:

causing a golf ball to drop into said cup and be supported on saidrecess of said diaphragm; generating an electric signal in response todownward movement of said coil relative to said magnet caused bydownward movement of said diaphragm as caused by the presence of saidgolf ball in said cup on said diaphragm; and in response to generationof said electrical signal, flexing said diaphragm upwardly and impactingsaid golf ball with said diaphragm generally upwardly out of said cupmeans in a generally random manner from one of said random locations,

directed generally across said diaphragm.

1. A golf cup comprising: first means including a housing operable to be positioned at least partially below ground level, and open upwardly, and receive a downwardly moving golf ball; second means including a diaphragm operable to impact a golf ball out of said housing; said diaphragm defining a bse of said housing and being operable to undergo downward and upward flexing movement; said diaphragm including a recess operable to receive and support a golf ball at random locations therein; third means operable to effect golf ball impacting, upward flexing movement of said diaphragm; and fourth means operable to actuate said third means in response to downward flexing movement of said diaphragm; said upward flexing of said diaphragm being operable to impact said golf ball upwardly out of said housing, generally transversely across said diaphragm.
 2. An apparatus as described in claim 1 wherein said diaphragm comprises: a bellows encircling a cavity and operable to resiliently extend longitudinally upwardly of said housing; and a flexible wall extending across an upper portion of said bellows and defining a generally annular, ball receiving recess, comprising said recess of said diaphragm, and generally encircling said cavity; said annular, ball receiving recess having a generally concave cross section, an outer, generally annular rim operable to engage an under portion of a golf ball, and an upwardly converging wall operable to engage an under portion of said golf ball.
 3. An apparatus as described in claim 2 wherein said third means comprises: an impacting cup operable to engage the underside of said rim of said diaphragm and effect upward movement thereof; said upward movement of said rim being operable to longitudinally extend said bellows and cause said annular, ball receiving recess to impact a golf ball supported thereby and cause said golf ball to be impacted generally upwardly out of said housing.
 4. An apparatus as described in claim 3: wherein said impacting cup comprises a generally frusto-conical, impacting wall diverging upwardly of a longitudinal axis of said housing; and wherein said third means further includes a lightweight, electromagnetic coil disposed beneath said frustoconical impacting wall, said frustoconical impacting wall being movable upwardly, at least in part, away from said lightweight coil, and a magnet defining an annular passage, within which annular passage said lightweight coil is telescopingly received; said magnet and lightweight coil being operable to actuate said fourth means by generating an electrical signal in response to downward movement of said diaphragm, said frustoconical impacting wall, and said coil caused by engagement of a golf ball with said diaphragm; said fourth means being operable to generate a flow of electricity through said coil in response to actuation of said fourth means, with said flow of electricity being operable, in cooperation with a magnetic field generated by said magnet, to induce upward, ball impacting movement of said lightweight coil; said upward, ball impacting movement of said lightweight coil being operable to induce upward movement of said frustoconical impacting wall, with said upward movement of said frustoconical impacting wall in turn inducing upward movement of said diaphragm; and said upward movement of said diaphragm being operable to impact a golf ball received therein generally across, and upwardly out of, said housing in a random manner; said frustoconical impacting wall, during said upward movement, being movable relative to, and away from said coil; and said fourth means including battery means operable to supply said flow of electricity.
 5. An apparatus as described in claim 1: wherein said third means includes a coil movable downwardly in response to downward movement of said diaphragm caused by engagement of a golf ball therewith and movable upwardly to effect golf ball impacting movement of said diaphragm; said downward movement of said movable coil being operable to develop an electrical signal; and wherein said fourth means includes an amplifier operable to amplify said electrical signal; and means operable to deliver electrical energy to said movable coil, with said electrical energy being operable to induce said upward movement of said coil.
 6. An apparatus as described in claim 1 wherein said third means comprises: a coil operable, when electrically energized, to impart a generally upwardly directed impacting force to said diaphragm; and a magnet telescopingly receiving said coil and operable, in cooperation with said electrical energization of said coil, to develop said impacting force.
 7. A method of operating a golf ball ejecting cup which includes: a golf ball receiving cup positioned at least partially below ground level, opening upwardly, and having a base defined by a diaphragm; said diaphragm having a recess operable to support a golf ball at random locations therein; and a magnet mounted in said cup and a coil movable downwardly and upwardly in said cup relative to said magnet, said coil being movable downwardly relative to said magnet in response to downward movement of said diaphragm and movable upwardly relative to said magnet so as to induce upward flexing movement of said diaphragm; said method comprising: causing a golf ball to drop into said cup and be supported on said recess of said diaphragm; generating an electric signal in response to downward movement of said coil relative to said magnet caused by downward movement of said diaphragm as caused by the presence of said golf ball in said cup on said diaphragm; and in response to generation of said electrical signal, flexing said diaphragm upwardly and impacting said golf ball with said diaphragm generally upwardly out of said cup means in a generally random manner from one of said random locations, directed generally across said diaphragm. 